CMS delays bundled payment program until January 2018 — 4 key notes

CMS postponed the start date of its mandatory bundled payment models and amendments to the existing Comprehensive Care for Joint Replacement program from Oct.1, 2017, to Jan. 1, 2018, Medscape reports.

Here's what you should know.

1. Medscape said the delay was not unanticipated. Medscape believes the programs could be further modified or possibly eliminated in the future.

2. A CMS spokesperson told Medscape that physicians reached out saying they needed more time to prepare for the programs.

4. Analysts have speculated that Dr. Price's disapproval and the delayed start date might mean modifications are coming to the program. Some analysts believe CMS might alter the programs to allow hospitals to opt-out.